The idea of European Christmas is diversified. While Christmas in Spain sees to it that Christmas is celebrated and felt in every aspect, other European countries get by with just a thing or two to experience it. In Germany, Christmas markets are everywhere. It is a German tradition that dates back in centuries. And almost every town, if not everyone in Germany has its own unique Christmas market. One town may have the biggest Christmas tree and another having the biggest candle, and so on. German Christmas markets only last for a few days, but most of it starts in late November until Christmas Eve. These Christmas markets can be thoroughly explored in the cities of Berlin, Dresden, Frankfurt and Munich as they draw countless visitors yearly.

On Italy, the central date for gift giving is on the 12th day of Christmas, or January 6. Christmas period in Italy is celebrated on December 24 through January 6. The 12th day of Christmas is the time when the three Kings gave gifts to Jesus, therefore it is also the same day that local folks exchange their gifts. The tradition of Epiphany and La Befana (“the tale of a white-haired witch known as La Befana who arrives on her broomstick during the night of January 5 and fills the stockings with toys and sweets for the good children and lumps of coal for the bad ones.”) are a big part of Italian Christmas celebration.

Christmas in France is typical much like in most countries, and manifested by family reunions, giving gifts and charities, and observing the Midnight mass. The la Messe de Minuit on Christmas Eve is an important part of Christmas for many families. A huge feast following the mass is called le Réveillon, which depicts the significance of the birth of Christ. It is the best time to have a really good food indulgence at home or in a café or restaurant. Traditional menus in France include the turkey, goose, chicken, capon, and the boudin blanc (white pudding).

European countries have different ways of celebrating the Christmas holidays, and the customs and traditions along with it are distinctive from each other, yet captivating. But one factor never leaves the way, and that is the value of giving gifts and sharing the spirit of Christmas with family, friends and loved ones who are all bonded together for the Christmas season.